Failed in Chicago
Failed in Minny
Failed in Edmonton
Failed in minor stint with Texas

Yes I think it is fair to say 26 yr old Cam Barker has reached point in which hope is lost

And its not like other prospects were he didn't get coaching or proper chance ,, Cam has had more chances then many failed top 3 prospects

OK. Perhaps you still do not realize that, unlike in Chicago, Minny, and Edmonton Cam Barker was not signed by Vancouver with the expectation that he will be a regular member of the nhl club. Aquilini is willing to burn money to give the canucks a competitive advantage. There is a chance, however small, that Cam Barker turns it around...in which case this signing is a win for the organization.